2019.09.16: Hungry Like The Wolf

Hungry Like The Wolf
Lord Sterling calls upon his friends and allies to deal with Ravagers menacing Divertimento Dithyramb Dance.
IC Date	September 16, 2019
IC Time	Evening
Players	Sterling, Clara, Ethan Sienna, Erin, Erik, Martine
Location	Barony of Divertimento Dithyramb Dance
Spheres	Changeling
Theme Song	Hungry Like The Wolf

Begin Log

xxxxxThe usually cheery atmosphere of Capricorne Glade is dark and overcast, mirroring the sidhe lord's countenance. Lord Sterling paces back and forth, chomping the end of an unlighted cigar as he scowls and broods. "And you are sure of this?" he growls to a young boggan page boy, who's fidgeting with his hat in both hands. "Y-yes, my lord," stammers the boy. "On three separate nights now. All three sightings were down by the woods that border the Dancing Lawn." Sterling takes the cigar from his mouth, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Thank you, Tommy. You are excused." The page bobs a quick bow and scurries away. Sterling sighs heavily. "Damn and blast. Just what I need--a rampaging worg terrorizing the chimaera and stalking my hedge maze." He looks towards the gates of Dithyramb. "As of I didn't have enough on my plate as it is, with those damned hooligans running about."

xxxxxEthan happens to appear on the edge of the scene from farther in the Dreaming. Not like, magically appear, he just walks up from elsewhere. "Hooligans? Hey man, I just got here," he says, a broad grin indicating he's probably kidding. He points to the cigar, "You ever gonna smoke that thing, or just bite my style?"

xxxxxSterling looks up as Ethan arrives, the tension draining from him. "Oh, thank the Graces. Ser Ethan, it was good of you to come. I am simply at my wit's end with these blackguards!" He lifts three fingers. "Three! Three of the photographers who frequent the studio have been assaulted and waylaid, their tools destroyed and their Glamour torn from their dreams! And now, I have a worg problem on my hands to boot!"

xxxxxJust then Clara comes stumbling through the gates, trying to catch herself until finally she falls to her knees sobbing. The beautiful kinaine's face is bruised, fingers bleeding as they cling to what was once her so precious camera. "Rick!" she calls but even her voice sounds bruised and exhausted as she tries to lift her head

xxxxxEthan is juuust holding up his hands and nodding his head, looking sideways over at Erik but saying to Sterling "Okay, alright, gotcha, we can try and--" and then he is distracted by the appearance of Clara.

xxxxxErik pauses, and looks over as he hears voices. He takes a step toward the one he recognizes and looks about to possibly greet the man when Clara arrives. He turns his head and blinks, turning to head her direction instead.

xxxxxEthan takes this moment in time to say as an aside to Erik, "So the only good news is, we get to escalate violence. The bad news? There's gonna be a line," and he points at Sterling, presumably right as things pitch forward towards hell.

xxxxxOnly one thing can strike fear into the heart of a Fiona nobleman--and that is a threat to a loved one. Seeing Clara stumble out of the rath in such a state turns Lord Sterling's face white as milk. "Graces!" He races over to her, skidding to a halt and dropping to his knees. "Let me see," he says, immediately starting to look her over. Despite his obvious fright, he's swift and methodical--the man is a doctor, after all. After a moment, he gently helps her to her feet. "Bad enough that they have Ravaged even one of the Dreamers who call my freehold home," he says, his tone menacingly quiet. "But now they have lain their filthy hands upon my lady wife." He looks to Ethan and Erik. "I must remain here at Dithyramb and see to Clara. But I beg of you... find the ones who did this. Find them and bring them to me." Now that the initial fright has passed, a dark and stormy scowl creases the elder sidhe's features. A rumble of thunder sounds ominously overhead. "And you needn't be too gentle," he growls softly.

xxxxxClara is drawn to her feet and leans heavily upon Sterling, miserable eyes lift to Erik as he comes over. She's clearly been beaten but that is not the worst compared to the effects of what being Ravaged has done to her. The remains of her camera drop from her fingers to the ground

xxxxxEthan says at Erik, "See?" and then with more sobriety, towards Sterling "We might not have anything to go on with the worg, but these Ravagers? They have a foot in their own handbasket. If you would grant us a favor, Lord Baron? Clean under her fingernails, and give it to me." And he gestures at Clara. "If she got so much as a scratch in, that's enough for me."

xxxxxErik frowns as he listens and nods.. "I'd be happy to help in any way I can." he offers, looking between Clara and Sterling.

xxxxxSterling can be found holding Clara, who has been beaten and bruised. The remains of her high-end camera are scattered at her feet. Sterling looks -furious- as he talks quietly with Ethan and Erik. He gives Erik a nod. "Follow Ser Ethan's lead, young man," he says. "By all accounts, these three are of middling ability at best. I don't believe that they shall pose much of a threat. But be wary--there's a worg on the loose. You may encounter it--if you do, then pray, look to your own safety. I grant you leave to deal with the beast however you needs must, should it prove a danger."

xxxxxClaras lovely face is bruised and her eyes are hollow as she leans against Sterling, tears running down her cheeks. She looks at her hands and nods to Ethan "I... think I did get in a few blows"

xxxxxMartine walks up with soft smilr. She is enjoying the serenity of this place up until she see's Clara's bruised face. Her smile becomes a grimace. "Lady Clara, your face... what happened." She quickens her steps to join the group.

xxxxxEthan very slowly and with no sudden moves gets just close enough to perhaps reach out and gently hold one of Clara's hands with one of his, and with the other (what, do they all carry knives or something?) has a knife run under a couple of her nails without so much as brushing her skin or chipping keratin. A muttered, "Pardon me, thank you," meanwhile. Knife skills, chefs do that. He carefully steps backwards, because well knife, until he's a respectful distance away. "So, 'young man'," he says at Erik. "How fast can you run?"

xxxxxSterling snaps his fingers. "Warm water and clean cloths, darlings," he calls to the cherubs that hover around the gazebo. A number of them zing away, soon returning with an earthenware bowl between four of them, and two more carrying a stack of clean cloths. Taking up one of the cloths, Sterling dips it into the water, squeezing it out, before gently brushing the moist cloth under Clara's fingernails. "Have no fear, my lady," he says as he works. "We shall have justice for this wicked deed. I promise." Once Clara's nails have been cleaned, he offers the cloth out to Ethan. "I pray it aids you in your quest, Ser Ethan." As Martine arrives, the elder sidhe nods his head. "My lady was attacked by a band of Ravagers that have been preying upon the Dreamers here, lately," he says. "I am sending Ser Ethan and this young gentleman to find them. I beg you, dear Martine, accompany them and lend them your aid, if you can."

xxxxxEthan amends his pose to where he just takes the cloth from Sterling. "Oh, definitely. Those guys are toast," he says with a grin.

xxxxxThe Kinain manages a weak smile for Ethan "thank you" then lays her dark head against Sterling's arm, utterly drained. Miserable eyes lift to Martine and she tries to smile but can't manage it. "hi"

xxxxxMartine nods. "I shall." Her tail switches. Up close the image of a cute kitty pooka isnt so cute. Her vertically slit eyes and claws make her seem more like one of Grimm's Fairy stories. "Does my lord want them living or dead?" She nods to the others. "Just rest," she says consolingly to Clara.

xxxxxSterling nods his head to Martine. "Alive," he says. "Though you needn't be at all gentle with them. Thank you, my dear. You're a good friend. All of you... very good friends. I shall not forget this service." He leans down to hug Clara as she leans against him. "Come, my lady. Let's get you resting by the balefire. We'll have you right as rain in no time at all." He turns to start carefully helping Clara up the stairs to the gazebo.

xxxxxErik watches the exchange between Ethan, Clara and Sterling.. He tilts his head when he is addressed and responds, "How fast do I need to run?" he asks. "Or.. How about..." he looks to Clara and stands straight, his demeanor changing slightly, "What I do have are a very particular set of skills, skills I have acquired over a very long career. Skills that make me a nightmare for people like them. I will find them, and I will bring them to justice."

xxxxxClara nods a little to Sterling's suggestion but won't move unless he moves her. When Eric stands straight her lips curve a little before she sighs "Thank you.. all" and looks up at her Lord and husband

xxxxxMartine smiles when Sterling indicates the brigands are to be taken alive. It is a viscious thing that infects her face. "They'll wish you wanted them dead Baron Sterling. My gratitude for your protection of my family is eternal. Amor Vincit Omnia." She bows curtly to the departing couple.

xxxxxEthan shrugs and says "Not as fast as I do, because I'll know where we're going, but fast enough to keep up," then shoves the sodden cloth into his mouth like it was so much a stick of gum. Only swishing it around like mouthwash. "Then you can go all Liam Neeson on the bastards, just leave enough of them for Sterling to determine just how much he really cleaves to The Right To Life. But good on Clara for giving it to 'em," he says out of the corner of his mouth.

xxxxxErin steps in to find a scene that shows something massive has happened. Ethan, Erik and Martine are preparing to leave on some mission or other as Sterling keeps a strong arm about Clara. The kinaine has clearly been beaten, her pretty face bruised, the remains of her camera strewn at her feet. But the misery in her eyes is the most telling of the Ravaging she has suffered

xxxxxAs Erik makes his pledge, a spark of brilliant red flame leaps up from his palm. It circles around, crackling like a campfire. Then, it whizzes away, speeding towards the hedge maze. It pauses, then whizzes back, bouncing eagerly, like a puppy wanting to play, before whizzing back. It would seem that the party has their tracker--between the cantrip and Ethan's preternatural senses, they should have no trouble at all in finding the Ravagers. "Good fortune and good hunting, my friends," he says. "I pray you return swiftly and safely."

xxxxxErin of course doesn't come alone as Kringer is right behind her. She looks around "Holy shit what happen?" she asks and looks curiously over to Ethan and Erik.

xxxxxSterling looks over as Erin arrives. "Ravagers. There's a band of them that have been terrorizing the people. And now..." He looks down to Clara, holding her close. "Now they have attacked Clara. And I shall not have it." He nods to Ethan, Erik, and Martine. "They go to track down the villians and bring them to me. Help them, dear Erin, if you can, I beg you. Innocent people have suffered long enough. But be mindful, there is a worg on the loose out there. You may encounter it, so... be ready."

xxxxxEthan swallows whatever it was he was chewing on an inordinately long amount of time, closes his eyes, inhales a deep breath through his nose. Another sniff, and his eyes open. He says, "We're going hunting," in response to Erin, and starts out at a brisk pace towards the hedge maze. He passes Erik saying "Told you," and is then at a run. The bouncing ball may bobble about, but the redcap makes a beeline (with a few hedges getting in the way) to-- wherever it is he's going.

xxxxxErin glances to Clara then over to Sterling and gives a nod before she let's Kringer get beside her and she climbs onto the saddle and turns to follow "Ok well let's go then let's go kick some butt then" her and Kringer go after Erik and Ethan.

xxxxxAnd the hunt is on! The brave hunters leap out, following after Ethan and the Will o' Wisp conjured by Erik. Through the hedge maze they plow, twisting and turning through its many corridors. But the spark of flame and Ethan's hunger both lead them unerringly. Out into a broad, manicured lawn. The Dancing Lawn. Beyond, the forests surrounding the Glade gather, looking darker and more ominous than usual. The Wisp is leading them right for that mass of trees. As they near the treeline, however, the sound of a wolf's howl pierces the night. Deep, and somehow mournful.

---

xxxxxLed by Erik's Wisp and Ethan's unerring hunger, the party has woven its way through the hedge maze, crossed the broad expanse of the Dancing Lawn, and is headed for the Darkening Wood on the very edge of Dithyramb's territory. As they approach the gnarled, twisted trees, the sound of a wolf's howl rises up. Low, sonorous, and mournful. A flock of birds twitters up from the treetops, their forms faintly visible against the overcast skies. A chill wind blows as they pass under the eaves of the wood. But still the Wisp is leading them deeper into the darkened forest, which Ethan is able to confirm--this is the way they need to go.

xxxxxEthan of course slows his breakneck pace when it comes to the woodline, and the treacherous forest floor that follows. He picks his way through the underbrush, waving for others to follow but trying not to make too much noise. Athough you can just hear him mutter, "If that bauble gives away our position to those jokers, I am going to be sore vexed."

xxxxxErin is following as she rides Kringer to keep up with the running fast people. Oh the new thing on Kringer's saddle is a sword just a standard type mind you but she has one what do you know. She pauses and pats Kringer as they look around letting Ethan and Erik be the lead.

xxxxxMartine takes out a small amber charm and some metal threads like tinder, she keeps her sharp eyes to the trees, waiting for the wolf to make itself known. She is behind a few steps from Ethan because his neck seems a better risk of surprise attacks than her own. Shitty pooka are shitty.

xxxxxDeeper into the wood the party goes. The underbrush is thick, with fallen branches and hidden roots snagging at their feet. The warmth of late summer seems to grow oppressive as they go further in, leaving behind Capricorne Glade's calming influence. There's no further sign of the wolf, at least for the time being, but signs of recent passage begin to become evident. Snapped twigs, trampled grasses, broken bark. Someone has come through here and it wasn't very long ago. A sheer rock face becomes visible through the twisting undergrowth, and... everyone now needs to roll Perception + Alertness!

xxxxxEthan stops abruptly and holds up a hand, presumably for silence. He half-turns and points at Martine, then holds his hand above the ground, nodding.

xxxxxMartine creeps into the trees where no one can see her and then scouts ahead as a chocolate long haired cat. It will be out of place in the forest but her dark colored fur helps.

xxxxxErin moves closer as she lowers her voice "There are three, kinda roundish and there talking softly kinda like we are and there is snome snickering and snort laughter coming from the cave" she gives a little shrug. She looks towards Martine then towards Ethan after that.

xxxxxMartine sneaks ahead on soft paws, cloaked by her magic. Less than a shadow.

xxxxxErik slows when everyone else does and does his best to stay quiet, nodding to the others.

xxxxxMartine sneaks back to the others. Speaking to them in a stage whisper that looks silly coming from a cat. "A troll, a pooka pork, and a nocker. Drunk and laughing. Couldnt hear over the wind. They dont seem like they know we are here yet. Wolf could be a different story. I didnt see any captives."

xxxxxErin looks towards Ethan and the others "Well Sterling wanted them back alive, anyone have any ideas?"

xxxxxErik shrugs, "I can try to flicker flash them back if you like.. But otherwise I am not the best at combat but will give it a shot."

xxxxxEthan says quietly "What, you wanna have the fight there instead? Nah, I can handle the troll. You guys pick dance partners among yourselves."

xxxxxMartine says, "I'll handle the bacon."

xxxxxErin looks to Ethan "So beat them till a inch of their life and bring them back is that the plan?" she looks to Erik "You can help me if you want and we can take the Nocker down" she takes a breath.

xxxxxEthan nods at all that is said. "And do not think for a moment they will not cantrip the shit out of us in return. They may be stupid enough to ravage, to ravage Clara of all people, and get caught.. but unless they're big spenders they are probably still replete with Glamour. Hers."

xxxxxMartine says, "Its better if we wait. One of a group of drunks is bound to pee. Take him then take the others, no?"

xxxxxA plan is in place! Opponents are chosen. The question is now--does the party sneak up on the Ravagers, or are they trying to go stealthy?

xxxxxErik nods and starts to move around to attempt to flank when Martine speaks, he looks between her and Ethan.

xxxxxEthan says, "Plus if we're bagging and tagging? Nobody else slip up and kill anyone. Or get killed, we're still in the Dreaming. That shit is for real." He says with some surprise, "Damn, that actually is good. Alright, whoever breaks the seal first... if he is yours, move on him. The others will move up to strike if we lose the element of surprise."

xxxxxErin nods slowly to Ethan about being careful and takes a breath.

xxxxxMartine says, "I can make the sky hit them. There will be an obvious signal." Cat grins are creepy and talking cat grins doubly so. Martine slinks into the trees to wait. Finding a nice perch.

xxxxxIt doesn't take long before one of the three heavyset teens comes making his way out--the pig pooka. "Hey, Tusker, feed Bigby, woulja?" he calls as he goes to find a tree. He can be heard humming a little tune--the classic Disney 'Who's Afraid Of The Big Bad Wolf' as he goes approach one of the gnarled trees. Now's the chance to strike!

xxxxxEthan does his level best to move stealthily and find 'the troll'. It could be "Tusker" and the wolf... Nah, it is too early for that kind of Christmas.

xxxxxMartine makes those little biting motions with her teeth that all cats do when hunting. She stands on two legs, rubbing against the tree to 'build up static'.

xxxxxErin climbs down from Kringer and has him stay close to Erik before she moves to sneak up in the Nocker her mark.

xxxxxOh yeah. Porky Pooka doesn't even notice at all. He's busily watering the tree, totally oblivious to the party sneaking up on him. "Hmm hmm da dumm... yar har, fiddle dee dee," he sings to himself. Meanwhile, Ethan is able to slip into the cave. There he'll find the tubby troll shoving an old dried bone at a barred alcove in the cave. A pair of baleful green eyes can be seen glowing dimly in the gloom. "C'mon, if you wanna eat, then eat!" the troll says with a frown. The nocker snorts. "Aww, fuck that thing, dude. He can eat s'more of His Lordship's fuckin' pixies tomorrow."

xxxxxMartine lets out a low angry mrowl as she releases the bunk, calling lightning down on the pissing pig pooka. Her face is rapturous.

xxxxxEthan remains hidden within the cave, planning on striking when the lightning does and manages his best to use the terrain to his advantage... sliding the palm of one hand over the sharp edge of a handy nearby stalagmite, as if coaxing the earth into desiring further bloodshed.

xxxxxErin is super sneaky and gets to where she can as they wait for the que from Martine to light up the one little piggy so that she can use the roots and things around them to quickly ensare the bad guy that she was told to capture.

xxxxxKRA-KOWWW! A bolt of lightning roars down from the sky, slamming into Porky Pooka. "AGAGAGAGAGAGAAAA!" he stammers, eyes wide as he shudders and jolts. And sprays pig wee wee everywhere. The sound makes Tusk the Troll and the nocker look up with a blink. Eyes wide with sudden panic. "Uh... Petey? You okay, dude?"
xxxxxKKK-KRR-KK-KK! The stone of the cave answers to Ethan's call, thick granite climbing up Tusk the Troll's legs like animate clay. He looks down with a yelp, trying to pull his feet free... but to no avail. He's stuck fast! At the same time, there's a creaking of wood as Neville the Nocker jumps to his feet, only for his arms and legs to get wound about by a sudden burst of tangling growth, courtesy of Erin! The three wilders are captive! (Well, two are captive--one is lying in a spreading puddle of piss in a daze).

xxxxxEthan comes out from his cover and in a voice that could drop the temperature of the cave and degrees says to the troll, "Anything you struggle or flail with? I will bite. It. Off. That goes for the rest of you." And he goes over to the penned worg, looking inside the cage.

xxxxxMartine comes out of the trees in her fae seeming. Coming up to stand over the pig and then gingerly taking handcuffs from her purse. They're the fuzzy pink bdsm kind, (dont ask), but will work if piggy isnt unnaturally strong. She tries to roll him over and cuff him.

xxxxxErik was possibly about to pounce, but it seems the targets are all immobilized.. He steps into view and assesses the scene curiously.

xxxxx"Guhhhh..." Peter Pig isn't in any state to resist as Martine slaps those sexy bondage cuffs on him. Meanwhile, Tusker and Neville are squirming and squealing. Sounding remarkably pig-like themselves, in a way. "Dude, dude, come on brah, let us go!" whines Neville. He turns his beady eyes on Ethan as the redcap steps out, his pasty pale face turning even whiter. "Dude, c'mon, we can make a deal, can't we? Hey, listen, we got our own pet worg over there. He's all yours if you let us go! He's totally housebroken and everything! C'mon brah, give us a break!"

xxxxxEthan frowns and says over his shoulder, "You guys are a whole new classification of stupid. Sure would suck if somehow you vanished from under my custody and were not seen again, and yet Lord Sterling suddenly no longer feels the need to avenge his lady wife."

xxxxxErin steps out of her hiden spot as she moves she is super quiet as she snorts "Shut up before I gag you" she tsks as she looks to Erik "You ok?" she has Kringer keep a watch at the opening in case the howiling one comes their way. She rocks on her heels a little bit.

xxxxxMartine nods as she sits on the handcuffed pig. "We can. You cant take pig form cause Im looking. Dreadful that. What sort of deal do you want to make? Also hold still I dont want to poke your eyeballs out."

xxxxxEthan says while eyeing the captive chimera "Besides, you're wrong. This guy belongs to no one."

xxxxxErin looks thoughtful as she looks towards Ethan and looks to Martine before she glances to Erik "So what now we going to drag t hem back or take Erik's offer?"

xxxxxDeep within the cave, the captive worg snarls and snaps, pacing in his confines. The rattle of a chain can be heard. In the right light, one can make out the manacle cuffed to the poor chimera's back leg. The beast looks thin, his ribs visible under his night-black fur. They've been starving the poor thing. Peter Pig isn't saying much, still dazed from Martine's shocking attack. The nocker gulps at Ethan, trying to scrunch into a little ball--of course, the roots binding his limbs make that impossible. Tusk the Troll shivers and whimpers. "C-c-c'mon, man, we didn't mean to hurt anyone!" he stammers nervously. "We were... uh... upholdin' the Escheat! Yeah, that's it! Upholdin' the Escheat! We couldn't have those people takin' pictures of us!" Well... the party has apprehended the three little pigs. What now...?

xxxxxMartine nods. "Right right well good news," she says as she uses a claw to make an incision along the side of the pigs eyelid. "Sterling wants you alive, if possible. Hold still idiot."

xxxxxEthan says "I am sure Baron Sterling will be pleased to know that, your having smashed his wife's camera-- with her face. To say nothing of ravaging his dreamers. If you had done that to my people? We would not be having this conversation." He undoes the cage latch and goes into the alcove with the worg. "Easy there bud. Just one apex predator to another. Chill," no longer talking to the kithain captives.

xxxxxErik nods to himself and looks around a bit.. After a few moments he nods to himself and stands up straight.. "I think I can get us back there quicker.. But its not gonna be a smooth ride." he says as he heads over to the fire the piggies were around. He reaches in and pulls out a coal, a grimace on his face as the smell of searing flesh wafts from him. He douses it with whatever liquid is available and walks over to the dazed pig, where he starts to draw on the back of the pooka's head.

xxxxxEthan can be heard to say, "Then you guys get them back to Triple D. We'll catch up."

xxxxxPeter Pig snorts and grunts as Martine cuts into his skin. Blinking as he shakes off the daze. "Huh... whu... REEEEEE!" He squeals in a panic, trying to push Martine off of him. "Help! Help! She's crazy, dude! She's fuckin' craaaaazy!" The worg stops in its pacing as Ethan approaches, rumbling a low growl. He's hungry... something Ethan is intimately familiar with. Restrained as he is, Erik finds it an easy enough task to draw on the back of the pooka's bald head. The other two little pigs whimpering a bit as they struggle against their bonds. "What... what are you gonna do to us?" whimpers the troll.

xxxxxMartine slits the other side and staples the poor bastards eyelid to his forehead. "Keep an eye out. Sterling will have a show for you.". She stands and lets the others handle it from there. Shes made her point on good behavior.

xxxxxErin looks to Erik. "You do what you need too and we will catch up, get as many you can safely."

xxxxxErik continues to apply a piece of mediocre artwork on the back of the pig's head.. He looks around and grins, "Anyone that doesn't want a ride should prolly take a couple steps back." and then he rares back his arm, balls up his fist and swings at the back of the pooka's head. Erik's swing is not a very strong one, barely making a thud as it connects the pigs, martine and Erik all vanish in a pop.

xxxxxEthan had, at this point, unlocked the cage containing the worg and stepped just inside, being careful to move slowly but definitely no signs of fear. (also four successes on Bully Browbeat previously)

xxxxxThe worg crouches back away from Ethan, ears flat against his skull and his teeth bared in a snarl. But his tail is tucked firmly between his legs, and those legs are shaking from weakness and hunger. Now that the cage is open, it's obvious how piteous the poor thing is. Those three Ravagers have beens starving the beast.

xxxxxErin and Kringer were ourside the cave keeping and eye on thing as Erik and Martine had left with the little piggies. Letting Ethan calm the poor little beast.

xxxxxHaving successfully established dominance, Ethan goes about making sure there was not a missed shackle or collar or anything else still plaguing the chimera. Then, without turning around, he backs back out, giving a head tilt and a beckoning wave. "Come on, pal. You deserve a better alpha," he says as he continues to back/lead. "Let's you and me go hunt something more your style."

xxxxx"Rrrrr..." The worg looks furtively between Ethan, Erin, Kringer, and the cave entrance. But as the redcap starts backing away, the beast headtilts. He slowly steps forward, whimpering softly as he makes his way out of the cage and into the light. His nose twitches as he scents the free air of the forest. Slowly he makes his way out of the cave on shaking haunches. Just then, the clouds roll aside to reveal a great silvery moon. The worg lifts its muzzle and lets loose a triumphant howl. Free at last!

xxxxxKringer and Erin do move out of the way so the Worg has a perfect chance to get out without them being in the way. They do watch it and Kringer does stand a little infront of Erin in a bit of protection just in case the Worg got the wrong idea. They quietly watch.

xxxxxEthan says with a grin, "There, that makes for a good start," he says aside, obviously to Erin, "I'll go make sure he eats an elk, or something else not sentient and away from Triple D. You go tell Sterling that this part is handled, make sure that everyone got back in one piece. Or at least pieces that can be stuck back together... Flicker Flash, oy," but is obviously pleased with at least this part of the encounter.

xxxxxErin gives a sagely nod "Ok if you are sure i'll head back and make sure everyone is safe and you'll join us later"

xxxxxWith Ethan's help a silverpelt elk is easily brought down, and the worg falls to with a vengeance. Devouring the creature hungrily, horns, hooves, and hide all. As he battens himself upon fresh Glamour, the worg's own pelt becomes lustrous and shiny once again, glistening like a moonless night. Once he is restored, he pushes his head under Ethan's hand, tail wagging happily. Looks like someone's made a new friend!

xxxxxEthan said to Erin "Yeah, I am sure," and ran off into the woods alongside the worg. Damn, and here he thought he would have had to play cleanup!

---

xxxxx Pop Back in the clearing arrives Erik, Martine and the Ravagers in question. He looks around as they appear, wondering if anyone is still around.

xxxxxMost of the party safely arrives back at Capricorne Glade. A gaggle of cherubs start zinging around the Three Little Pigs, tsking and tutting as they wag their fingers. But then, at the top of the gazebo comes a fearsome sight. Lord Sterling steps out onto the steps. Eyes blaze like sapphire suns, a subtle wind stirring his cloak. The fury of the sidhe is a thing of legend, and right now... Lord Sterling is indeed furious. "So... these are they," he growls, his voice rumbling like the onset of a thunderstorm, deep and heavy with meanace.

xxxxxMartine slinks around in the background with a wide grin after dumping off her prisoner with his cut eyelid tacked to his forehead. She's ready for the show.

xxxxxErin and Kringer will arrive like a lot later so keep posting and she will post in when she arrives.

xxxxxErik steps back from the prisoners and nods, "Aye.." he replies and pauses, "Sir Ethan is dealing with the Worg as we speak."

xxxxxThe Three Little Pigs all cringe as Lord Sterling comes lumbering down the stairs. One hand behind his back, the other resting meaningfully on the pommel of his broadsword. Peter Porker stammers, pointing a finger at the stone-ensnared troll. "It was his idea--!" Tusker gasps, looking down at the pig pooka. "Bullshit, you totally said--!" Neville wiggles his arms in his root prison. "Hey man, I was just taggin' along, I had nothing to do with this--"
xxxxx"Silence." It's a single word Lord Sterling speaks, but it cracks with the force of a thunderbolt. He sweeps his glare across the three teenaged Kithain, who all snap their mouths shut. Striding up and down, glaring at each one in turn. "I am lord of this land. And my laws are simple. All who come here shall do so with love in their hearts and laughter on their lips. That is all I require. I ask no taxes. I demand no tithes, nor oaths of service. If anyone comes to me in need, I gladly offer them succor." He turns then, jabbing a finger at the three. "But that was not enough for you three, was it? You wanted more, and thought you would take it from me. And so you three have dared to assault the Dreamers that take shelter in my holding! Including my lady wife! In flagrant violation of Kithain law!"

xxxxxErik stands at a respectfull distance, hands laced behind his back. He stays quiet for now letting Lord Sterling do his thing.

xxxxxMartine grins with teeth. She's purring now looking down at them on the ground, Creepy little bitch.

xxxxxSterling slowly paces back and forth, like a lion pacing the edge of a cage. If he had a tail, it would surely be lashing. "You three have violated the Right to Dream. Four people have been harmed by your selfless greed. Not to mention your wanton destruction of some very expensive photography equipment. And was it worth it? Did you enjoy your little game? Was it fun terrorizing people who never did anything to you?" He looks between the three little pigs, who are all trembling, knock-kneed as they focus their gazes resolutely upon Lord Sterling boots. "Well?!" he snaps, making them jump. "N-no," Peter stammers. Tusker shakes his head, biting his lip. "No, sir," says Neville the Nocker. Sterling leans in closer to Peter Porker. "No what?" Peter gulps audibly, looking fearfully up at Sterling. "No... m-m-milord," he whimpers.
xxxxxSterling straightens, turning and resuming his pacing. "What is to be done with you three boys?" he growls, reaching up to rub his beard. "Four innocent souls, scarred by your doings. It will take months for their dreams to recover--should they recover at all." He turns on his heel to face the three, clasping his hands behind his back. "It would serve you three right to be Elder Formed into the greedy little pigs you are." The boys' jaws all drop. "What?! You can't do that--!" starts Peter. "We fuckin' got rights man!" insists Neville. Tusker simply moans. "My mom is gonna kill me..."
xxxxx"ENOUGH!!" The thunder clashes overhead as Sterling bellows for silence. "You dare? You assault my subjects, Ravage my lady, destroy the tools of their livelihood, and you dare to tell me what I shall and shall not do? In my freehold?!" He narrows his eyes, drawing slow, deep breaths. He lifts an index finger. "As Lord of Dithyramb, I am well within my rights to punish you three. And punish you I shall. I will not tolerate violations of Escheat in my lands. Nor shall my people ever be forced to fear for their safety!"

xxxxxMartine says. "You know I should say I can actually make pigs of them if you dont feel like waiting. Female pigs if you want. You know to keep them from corkscrew raping people, or whatever, Ill shutup." Big Cheshire grin.

xxxxxErik shakes his head as he watches the scene.. He arches a brow at Martine's offer, then looks between her and Sterling and the pigs.. He doesn't have anything to add at the moment it seems.

xxxxxSterling glances towards Martine with a low chuckle. "I do appreciate the offer, my dear," he says. "But no. I think I have something much more fitting... and much more dreadful in mind." He looks back to the three little pigs. "First. You shall be brought before the people you have harmed. And you shall apologize for what you did." He lifts two fingers. "Second. You shall be banished from the Dreaming for a month. And you shall be geased to prevent you from Ravaging for your Glamour. If you require Glamour, you shall inspire it like civilized Kithain." Did the baron just ground those three from the Dreaming? Yes. Yes he did. But he's not done yet. "Lastly. I shall pay to replace the equipment you destroyed. And the three of you shall work off the debt in the photography studio. You shall assist my lady wife in upkeep, and in running whatever errands the business requires. You shall be paid a fair wage for your time--half of which shall go towards your debt, and the other half for yourselves." He looks between the three. "Any questions?" The three little pigs blanch, but all shake their heads. "No. Milord," Peter says meekly. Sterling nods firmly. "Good." He looks over to Erin and Martine. "Ladies, if you would be so good as to release them."

xxxxxErin and Kringer show up just about now. She looks at the panther with her then looks around.

xxxxxMartine looks disappointed. "They could do community service gimping at my wife's club. You boys are lucky Sterling is so merciful. You ever touch my wife Ill throat you," she tells the pooka before cutting him loose.

xxxxxSterling looks over at Martine, shaking his head. "Now now. Right to Life, dear Martine. No Kithain shall bring salt tears upon the earth." He looks back at the three as they're freed. "Besides. I have in store for them a fate even worse than death." He leans in a little bit closer. "I'm going to tell their parents." Dun dun DUNNN.

xxxxxMartine rolls her eyes but keeps silent on the matter. Her thumbtack holder will be memorable for the offenders at least.

xxxxxErin raises a brow and looks over to the the piggies and the others before she gives a little shrug as her and Kringer get closer.

xxxxxErik smirks and steps back up, "Now that the culprits are caught and sentance passed.. If there is nothing else Lord.. I should probably head back."

xxxxxAnd so, Sterling lays the geas upon the three and sends them out of the rath with their heads hanging and their feet dragging. Turning back to the assembled party, he sweeps a low bow. "My friends, I am sorry you had to witness that. 'tis not something I enjoy doing. But thanks to you, the safety and security of my lands has been restored. I shall not forget your service to Dithyramb." He claps his hands, making a beckoning gesture. A flight of cherubs comes zinging down. "Would you please bring some stones from the balefire, darlings?" The cherubs all bob a curtsey and zing their way back to the gazebo. A moment later, they return, carrying smooth ruby-red prisms in their arms. At the center of the crystals, a spark of silvery flame can be seen dancing. Sterling passes one out to Erik, Erin, and Martine, and holds one in reserve for Ethan as well. "Use this Dross in good health, my friends. Please, feel free to stay and enjoy the Glade as long as you like. Or if you must leave, then may your travels be safe and your dreams sweet."

xxxxxMartine bows after receiving the stone. "Its nothing Baron Sterling. You may call upon my house anytime. We ap nothings always stand to defend your lady fair."

xxxxxErik accepts the dross with a smile, "Thank you Baron." he replies, "I am always here to help when needed."

xxxxxErin blinks as she takes the gift and smiles "Thanks" she looks at it then looks towards the others.